Pureprint issue a tribute honouring Sam Adams, creative retoucher & print colour specialist
We are deeply saddened to share the news of Sam Adams passing.
Sam was a much-loved colleague and friend. Thoughtful, calm, and quietly brilliant, he made a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of working with him. Whether you knew him well or just in passing, you felt better for having spoken to him.
Sam joined Pureprint in January 2013, bringing decades of experience and knowledge with him. Early in Sam’s career he worked at Reflex, and then moved on to Icon Colour in 1995. Over the next 17 years he worked his way up to General Manager, leading with the same warmth and care that defined everything he did. After Icon closed in 2012, we were lucky enough to welcome Sam into the Pureprint team.
He had an incredible eye. As one message put it, Sam “gave images life on the printed page.” Another described him as “the best colour specialist I have worked with.” Artists, designers and publishers trusted him completely, because his work wasn’t just technically excellent, it had soul. Several tributes said some of their finest books simply “wouldn’t have been possible without Sam’s involvement.”
But it wasn’t just his knowledge or skill that stood out. Sam was the person people turned to because they trusted him. He never made a fuss, never chased credit, and always made time to help. His steady presence, kind nature, and easy sense of humour made even the most difficult projects feel possible.
Outside of work, Sam had a deep love of sailing. He often spoke about time on the water, planning trips, and working on the boat. It was a clear source of happiness and peace, and it suited him perfectly.
We’ve been overwhelmed by the messages shared in recent weeks. So many people described Sam as one of the kindest, most genuine people they’ve ever met. Clients, colleagues, friends and suppliers all spoke of his warmth, professionalism, and generosity. He truly made a difference.
Sam leaves behind his beloved family, who he spoke of often and with great pride. Our thoughts and condolences are with them, and with all of Sam’s friends and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.
We’d also like to share these words from Lady Henrietta Pearson of Addison Publications, who worked closely with Sam on many treasured projects:
“Sam was involved with all Addison Publications’ major projects starting with the Highgrove Florilegium in 2007 when Icon was within the Westerham Press building at Edenbridge. We followed Sam to Pureprint where he prepared each of the Transylvania Florilegium watercolour paintings for printing. It is such a joy to show the finished books to queues of people who really do appreciate the quality and cannot believe they are looking at prints and not the originals. We constantly realise that what we show with great pride is only there because of the skills of others. Sam has played a major part in our publishing adventure.”
Sam will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege to know and work with him. We’re grateful for the time we had, and he will be remembered with huge respect and deep affection. Sam’s funeral service was held on Wednesday 30th July 2025.